The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has initiated a new campaign, 'Summer-proof your health', urging the public to be vigilant about how seasonal changes can affect their medicines and medical devices. Launched today, 14 July 2026, the five-week initiative aims to equip people with practical advice to ensure their treatments remain effective and safe throughout the summer months, which often bring altered routines, travel plans, and warmer temperatures.
Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, highlighted that while summer offers a welcome shift in pace, these changes, such as increased socialising, holiday travel, or spending more time outdoors, can inadvertently impact how medications function. The campaign will provide straightforward tips to help individuals navigate these potential challenges, focusing particularly on interactions that are often overlooked.
A key area of concern is the potential for interactions between medicines and other substances commonly consumed during summer. The MHRA warns that warmer weather and social gatherings can lead to an increased likelihood of people mixing their medications with alcohol, certain foods, or supplements without realising the consequences. Examples cited include alcohol's interaction with antibiotics, grapefruit juice affecting how some medicines are processed, and herbal products like St John's Wort interfering with prescription drugs. Even common occurrences like sickness after a night out can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.
Jenn Matthissen, MHRA Head of Gastrointestinal system, Nutrition, Endocrine and Fertility, emphasised that these interactions often go unnoticed because they are linked to enjoyable summer activities. She stressed that the objective is not to deter people from these moments but to foster awareness. The MHRA advises patients to review the patient information leaflet accompanying their medicine, which is also available online via the MHRA website. Furthermore, individuals are encouraged to consult a pharmacist or healthcare professional if they have any doubts about mixing medicines with alcohol, food, or supplements.
The campaign also underscores the importance of maintaining consistent routines for medicines that require specific timing, particularly during holidays, festivals, or late nights. By taking these simple precautions, the MHRA hopes to empower the public to enjoy their summer confidently, knowing their medicines are working as intended. Anyone suspecting a side effect from a medicine is advised to speak to their doctor, pharmacist, or nurse and report it through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.